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If you’re a fan of croissants and cookies, prepare to fall in love with this decadent recipe. Croissant cookies, infused with the nutty richness of browned butter, bring together two timeless treats in a way that’s absolutely irresistible. Imagine flaky layers of croissant filled with gooey, chocolate-studded cookie dough, finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for cozy afternoons, special gatherings, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe will wow your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to try them.
Why You’ll Love These Croissant Cookies
Elevated Flavor: Browning the butter adds a nutty, caramelized depth to the cookie dough that complements the buttery croissant layers perfectly.
Easy Yet Impressive: Using store-bought croissants simplifies the process, leaving you time to focus on creating the delicious cookie filling.
Versatile: These cookies are delightful as-is, but you can customize them with add-ins like nuts, white chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a fun weekend project, these croissant cookies are a must-try. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
½ cup Browned Salted Butter
¼ cup Sugar
¼ cup Light Brown Sugar
1 Egg
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
1¼ cup Flour
½ tsp Baking Soda
1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips
Other Ingredients
5 Croissants: Slightly stale works best for easier handling and slicing.
Sea Salt (optional)
What is Browned Butter, and Why Does it Matter?
Browned butter, or beurre noisette, is simply butter cooked until the milk solids turn golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma. This process enhances the butter’s flavor, making it more complex and sophisticated. It’s the secret ingredient that takes these croissant cookies from delicious to extraordinary.
How to Make Browned Butter
Melt the Butter: Place ½ cup of salted butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. The light color helps you monitor the browning process.
Watch Carefully: Once the butter melts, it will foam and sizzle as the water content evaporates. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
Look for the Change: After a few minutes, you’ll see brown specks form at the bottom of the pan, and the butter will smell nutty and caramel-like.
Remove from Heat: Immediately transfer the browned butter to a heatproof bowl to stop the cooking process. Let it cool slightly before using.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, combine the cooled browned butter, sugar, and light brown sugar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the dark chocolate chips. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Prepare the Croissants
Slice each croissant in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom piece.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 3: Assemble the Croissant Cookies
Scoop a tablespoon of the chilled cookie dough and spread it evenly over the bottom half of each croissant.
Place the top half of the croissant back on, pressing gently to secure.
Spread a thin layer of cookie dough on top.
Arrange the assembled croissant cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for slight spreading.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the croissant cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookie dough is golden and slightly crisp.
Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt immediately after removing from the oven for a gourmet touch.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Use Slightly Stale Croissants: They’re easier to slice and hold their shape better when layered with cookie dough.
Chill the Dough: This prevents the cookie filling from spreading too much during baking.
Don’t Overbake: The cookies should be golden and set on the edges but still soft in the center.
Experiment with Fillings: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or white chocolate chips to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
Creative Variations
Nutella Croissant Cookies: Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the croissant halves before adding the cookie dough.
S’mores Croissant Cookies: Add mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers to the cookie dough.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle the finished cookies with warm salted caramel for an indulgent touch.
This recipe is the perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The flaky croissant layers provide a light, buttery base, while the rich cookie dough filling offers chewiness and sweetness. The browned butter ties everything together with its deep, nutty flavor, creating a dessert that’s as elegant as it is comforting.
Storing and Freezing
To Store: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Assemble the croissant cookies but do not bake. Freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
Croissant cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. The combination of flaky croissant layers and gooey, chocolate-filled cookie dough creates a treat that feels luxurious and homey at the same time. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee, serving them at a holiday gathering, or sneaking one for a late-night snack, these cookies are guaranteed to bring joy.
Ready to make your own croissant cookies? Grab your ingredients and get baking! Let us know in the comments how they turned out or share your creative twists on the recipe.
Happy baking!
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